Determinants of tool life (Taylor’s equation context) Which of the following factors significantly affect tool life in metal cutting operations?

Introduction / Context:
Tool life governs productivity and cost. Taylor’s tool-life equation relates cutting speed to tool life, but in practice, tool geometry, feed, depth of cut, work material, and cutting environment also influence wear mechanisms like flank wear, crater wear, chipping, and notch wear.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Conventional turning or milling with properly selected tool material.
• Stable machine and workholding.
• Dry or lubricated cutting as applicable.

Concept / Approach:
Cutting speed strongly affects temperature and diffusion wear (higher speed → shorter life). Tool geometry (rake, clearance, edge prep, nose radius) governs force distribution, heat, and chip flow. Feed rate influences chip load and heat generation, affecting wear and chipping risk.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Empirical tool-life testing and manufacturer application data confirm sensitivity to these variables and recommend parameter windows accordingly.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Picking any single factor ignores the multivariate nature of tool wear. “None” contradicts well-established machining science.

Common Pitfalls:
Changing only speed to correct wear while ignoring geometry or feed; often a holistic adjustment (including coolant and edge prep) is needed.

Final Answer:

All of these